Synths primed and circuits live: SOFT RIOT returns with Crux, a minimalist-leaning full-length that balances darkwave, EBM, and Italo with "subtle humor and mild psychedelia" from this Glasgow-based synth auteur. Von Helfenstein weaves bamboo-driven khaen drones and pentatonic harmonies with modular synth in a choose-your-own-adventure album that flows seamlessly track to track. Modern Ideas debuts with "plastic dreams, electric romance, and machines humming with human desire" on this Melbourne DIY synth-pop gem, while Demiurgo leads you through a labyrinth of evolving sequences and dark atmospheric textures inspired by the myth of Daedalus.